As ambassadors of Chinese culture, Panda Express welcomes individuals across the nation to join the annual celebration of Chinese New Year, a holiday steeped in tradition, symbolism and cultural storytelling. Cultivating togetherness, celebration and hope for the future, the restaurant will commemorate the global holiday with a campaign devoted to sharing the rich traditions of Chinese New Year and educating guests everywhere about the unique food symbolism surrounding the holiday, which starts on February 16.
Evoking the true spirit of Chinese New Year, Panda Express brings the celebration to life in-store to its guests through its collaboration with Brooklyn-based, American Chinese artist Jing Wei. The acclaimed graphic artist has created festive new packaging, which portray the traditions of the holiday while bringing the message of celebration, togetherness and hope.
The new partnership is one of shared values—not only for art, but also, the deep-rooted culture that both Wei and Panda Express share and continue to inspire during this holiday. Takeout pails, cups and kid’s meal containers offered at Panda Express locations nationwide will each be adorned with Wei’s uniquely festive and vibrant signature designs, from now through March 20.
“As a family owned company and with our close connection to the Chinese culture, we are honored to work with individuals who share our deep-seated values, including Jing Wei,” says Andrea Cherng, chief marketing officer at Panda Express. “We are inspired by Jing’s artistic eye and her visual interpretations of the festival, which distinctly represent the significance of Chinese New Year and Panda’s cultural connection to the holiday.”
During this auspicious time, Panda Express also looks to extend its Chinese New Year festivities to Panda guests over delicious feasts. In honor of the long-standing practice of gifting hong bao (red envelopes) to loved ones, on Feb. 16 the restaurant will offer each guest a red envelope containing a coupon for a free serving of its celebratory 8 Treasure Chicken Breast entree, redeemable during a future visit, while supplies last.
“Chinese New Year is centered around sharing moments of optimism and happiness with friends and family, and we are grateful to cultivate those experiences here at Panda Express,” says Jimmy Wang, director of culinary innovation for Panda Express. “Through our lucky foods, such as Egg Rolls, Honey Walnut Shrimp, Chow Mein, our new 8 Treasure Chicken Breast limited-time offer, and our red envelope giveaway, celebrating the holiday with our guests is something we look forward to each year.”
